Stora Enso Wood Products launches whitepaper showcasing the science behind the health and well-being benefits of building with wood. Developed in partnership with the Technical University of Munich, the unique in-depth literature review dissects the increasing volume of evidence in this field that proves wood to be a stand apart building material option.
Duplex House Sistrans
The analysis reviews multiple areas of research, such as wood’s ability to reduce stress and boost productivity levels. One study saw participants experiencing a decrease in cortisol levels by 7.5%, implying a stress-reducing effect[1], and another revealed students in wooden classrooms had significantly lower heart rates and lower perception of stress[2].
Hygiene is also covered, with studies showing Coronaviruses (SARS -CoV-2) applied to wooden surfaces can only be replicated for 12 hours, whereas on surfaces made of plastic, stainless steel, glass and masonry, the viruses remain multipliable for up to 96 hours[3].
“Building with wood has many benefits, such as lowering environmental impact. But often underappreciated, is how it can improve health and wellbeing,” says Sebastian Hernandez, Building Concepts Manager, Building Solutions, Stora Enso Wood Products. “We hope that our study spurs an increased interest in research in the future.”
To view the 10 key well-being benefits of building with wood in the full whitepaper, read more here.
[1] Kotradyova et al 2019: Wood and Its Impact on Humans and Environment Quality in Health Care Facilities
[2] Grote et al., 2003: Gesundheitliche Auswirkungen einer Massivholzausstattung in der Hauptschule Haus im Ennstal. Österreich: Human Research Institut.
[3] Domig and Wimmer, 2020: Coronavirus on wood surfaces- Is there a risk?, https://www.timber-online.net/wood_products/2020/03/coronavirus-on-wood-sur- faces-is-there-a-risk.html